Bill > HB81

This bill prohibits state government entities from using the term "West Bank" when referring to the regions historically known as Judea and Samaria, which are territories Israel captured from Jordan during the 1967 Six-Day War. The legislation argues that "West Bank" is a term designed to erase Jewish historical connections to the land, and mandates that all official government materials must use "Judea and Samaria" instead, with the area south of Jerusalem considered "Judea" and the area north of Jerusalem considered "Samaria". The bill allows the executive head of a government entity to waive this prohibition if they determine it is in the state's interests, but they must submit a written explanation to the Legislature or Legislative Council within 30 days of doing so. The legislation provides historical context for the region, noting its significance in Jewish biblical and historical narratives, and includes definitions for key terms like "government entity" and "official government material". The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2026, giving state agencies time to adjust their terminology and documentation.

Government Affairs

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search